LAREDO, Texas — U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Gateway to the Americas Bridge intercepted two live parrots hidden inside a small container during a wildlife smuggling attempt earlier this month, according to the agency.
According to CBP, the incident occurred on July 8 when a 26-year-old female U.S. citizen attempted to enter the United States from Mexico as a pedestrian and was referred for a secondary baggage inspection. During the inspection, officers discovered two live birds concealed within the traveler’s personal belongings, the agency said. CBP Agriculture Specialists identified the birds as parrots and contacted the U.S. Department of Agriculture Veterinary Services division and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, according to CBP.
The agency said Homeland Security Investigations initiated a criminal investigation and arrested the pedestrian. The birds were turned over to USDA Veterinary Services, according to CBP. The individual was not named in the release, and is charged, not convicted.
“These smuggled animals can carry diseases that are not known to occur in the United States which can endanger native wildlife,” Laredo Port Director Alberto Flores said in a statement. “We must remain vigilant in protecting our wildlife from these reckless and illegal activities.”
According to CBP, the interception is part of the agency’s broader agricultural protection mission, which is aimed at preventing the introduction of harmful pests and diseases into the United States at land, air, and sea ports of entry.
Anyone with information about suspicious activity at ports of entry can report it to CBP by calling 1-800-635-2509.
Source: U.S. Customs and Border Protection
